Grand Bend
Grand Bend is one of Southern Ontario's most popular beach destinations. In the summer months, locals and visitors alike flock to this pristine sandy stretch of Lake Huron, known for its lively atmosphere, beachy shopping, beachside restaurants, bars and nightlife.
After a day at the beach, explore the many hiking and bike trails, vineyards and more in the surrounding countryside. For thrill-seekers, the town offers plenty of options with skydiving lessons, parasailing and even drag or lap driving at the Grand Bend Motorplex.
Where is Grand Bend?
Grand Bend is located on the eastern shore of Lake Huron in Southwestern Ontario. The town is located about an hour's drive north of London, three hours west of Toronto and one hour from the Blue Water Bridge, linking Michigan with the town of Sarnia.
The closes airport is London International Airport (YXU), with the option of renting a vehicle or catching a bus during the summer months.
Things to do in Grand Bend
Spend the day at the beach
Grab your umbrella and relax in the white sand of Grand Bend’s Main Beach, one of only 22 in Canada with Blue Flag status. Accessibility mats allow access by wheelchair or stroller.
Hit the track
Thrill-seekers looking for an adrenaline rush will find it at the Grand Bend Motorplex. This public racetrack offers multiple outdoor tracks for motocross, drag racing and karting.
Visit the farmers’ market
Shop locally grown seasonal produce, artisanal handcrafts, flowers, meats and more at the Grand Bend Farmers’ Market, held Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Take the leap into skydiving
Get the ultimate rush with a bird’s eye view of the beach on a Grand Bend skydiving excursion. Tandem jumps are available for first-time skydivers or jump classes for the more experienced.
Enjoy patio dining lakeside
Grab a bite to eat and sip a cold drink while watching beach life pass by from the patio of The Growling Gator, the local pub on Grand Bend’s busy main strip.
Sample local wines
Explore the viticulture of Grand Bend’s rural surroundings with a tasting tour of nearby vineyards like local favourites Shale Ridge Estate Winery or Dark Horse Estate Winery.
Get inspired
Plan your visit with these experiences and itineraries.
Points of interest
Discover more highlights this city has to offer.
Last updated: August 29, 2023